SO Rhode Island June 2024

41 Bass Rock Road NARRAGANSETT

$9,995,000 4 BEDROOMS

5.1 BATHROOMS

ERIN MARSH

401.225.4106

NARRAGANSETT

Te Scoop

9 The visionary bringing Manhattan melodies to Matunuck

14 RHODY PETS: Adoptable pets of the month

16 RHODY HEALTH: Tips for avoiding and treating summer stings

18 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s

20 Beloved Westerly bookstore reopened and reimagined

Home & Style

25 HOME: How soulful style permeates the life of an industrious couple

30 A NYC creative director sets up shop on Block Island

32 GARDEN: UK floral artist brings natural instincts to the NPT flower show

36 SHOP: Wickford jewelry shop celebrates silver anniversary

38 RHODY GEM: Coastal gifts inside a Warwick sea shanty

Feature

63 From lessons to custom boards, surf’s up in South County

Food & Drink

75 Inspired gatherings begin with cheese at new Wakefield cafe

78 EXPERIENCE: A West Warwick mainstay serves New England classics with love

82 IN THE KITCHEN: Mediterranean pop-up becomes permanent in Jamestown

86 FOOD TRENDS: Seafood season goes mobile

Cover Story: Rhody Summer Festival Guide

From art to music to food and more, Ocean State events you won’t want to miss

Trombone Shorty performing at Rhythm & Roots 2023

Photo by Ken Abrams

Photo courtesy of Peter Pan

Photography by Mark Lohman © CICO Books 2024

Photo courtesy of Salty Restaurant & Wine Bar

SUMMER LOVE

Photo courtesy of Sophie’s Brewhouse

Publishers

Barry Fain

Richard Fleischer

John Howell General Manager & Creative Director Nick DelGiudice

Editor in Chief Elyse Major

Editor

Ken Abrams

Digital Media Specialist

Jenna Kaplan

Advertising

Design Director

Layheang Meas

Senior Designer

Taylor Gilbert

Account Managers

Shelley Cavoli

Managing Editor Abbie Lahmers

Senior Editorial Designer Abigail Brown

Louann DiMuccio-Darwich

Ann Gallagher

Kristine Mangan Olf

Chris Revill

Interested in advertising?

Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com

Contributing Photographers

Mike Braca

Brie Bryer

Dylan Chandler

Bre Goldsmith

Justincase Photography

Karen Kalunian Mark Lohman

Contributing Writers

Karen Greco

Karen Kalunian

Ann Martini

Michael Masi

Heather Paliotta

Small Frye Photography

Mark Turek

Jess Woody

Emily Olson Fifi O’Neill

Jenny Shand Sarah Toatley Ruthie Wood

Interested in writing?

Email Abbie@HeyRhody.com

Interns

Shaliyah Dixon Cheikh Higgs

Interested in an internship?

Email Elyse@HeyRhody.com

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THE SCOOP

Art & Culture | Rhody Pets | Health | Calendar | Field Trip

Broadway by the Sea

Matunuck’s beloved theater continues to razzle dazzle after 91 years

By Karen Greco

n showbiz circles, the word impresario often gets tossed around, but for Theatre By The Sea’s producer and owner Bill Hanney, the description is apt. Hanney purchased the theater in 2012, after it sat dormant for five years. During its heyday, a who’s who of Broadway and Hollywood – Marlon Brando, Mae West, Judy Holliday, Groucho Marx – tread its boards. It was that history that prompted Hanney’s $1.2 million investment to revive the century-old barn theater. “It’s the best place in the world,” says Hanney, who notes he spends his summer sleeping in Mae West’s old bungalow.

Hanney caught the “theater bug” at 14 when his mom took him to a “big, beautiful” movie theater in Dorchester; Hanney, coy about his age, refuses to name the flick. He went back the next day and begged the owner for a job. Hanney went to work cleaning the theaters between showings. His pay? Free movie posters and all the films he could watch.

By the time Hanney was 19, he was managing the Dorchester theater and running another in Hyde Park when he heard about an abandoned theater in Fitchburg. “I said, where’s Fitchburg?” he recalls with a chuckle. But he saw promise in the shuttered venue. “It was a 1,700-seat movie theater with a full stage. It was huge.” He struck a deal with the landlord and turned the theater into a success by selling out each showing with dollar tickets.

Fitchburg proved a turning point. Promoter Cedric Kushner wanted to rent the venue for a show. “That show was a band called Rush and it sold out,” says Hanney. Even though the general admission tickets caused a stampede, Hanney looked at the broken glass doors littering the lobby and thought, “wow, this might be a good business.”

Hanney became a rock promoter, booking bands around the area. When he approached the Plymouth Theater in Worcester to put on a concert, the general manager said they only did Broadway. “I did movies, I did rock concerts. I didn’t know Broadway,” Hanney says. Undeterred, he reached out to Broadway tour producer Arthur Katz and booked his first season at the Plymouth, opening with A Chorus Line (incidentally, Theatre by the Sea’s opening show this summer). “We sold out,” he says. Now he was fully ensconced in the business of Broadway.

Of course, Broadway tours arrive ready with sets, costumes, and fully rehearsed casts. Theatre By The Sea (TBTS) is a producing house, which means the theater roars back to life in the late spring, when dozens of professional theater artisans descend on a still-sleepy Matunuck.

Hanney’s theater employs a full production staff, which includes the director; set, costume, sound, and lighting designers; a team of sewers in the costume shop; and a fabrication team to build and paint the sets. The actors and musicians – their shows feature a live orchestra - rehearse for two weeks in TBTS’s rehearsal space in Wakefield. Four weeks after the show opens, another one replaces it. Rinse and repeat two more times.

At the height of the season, upwards of 100 people are on the payroll. Most are from out of town, so TBTS houses visiting artists in the original guest rooms above the tavern, in RVs behind the theater, in a residential property, and a motel owned by the theater.

The expenses add up and, post-pandemic,

TRIVIA BY THE SEA

Impress your friends with these numerical facts before the show starts!

1. How many artists are employed at the height of the season?

2. How many refrigerators run across all four properties?

3. What is the capacity of onsite eatery Bistro By The Sea?

4. What local restaurant will operate the bistro this summer?

5. What year was the barn built?

6. Since being built, which one of these things has the property not been used as? A family farm, a hotel, a girls camp, a first-aid station, a summer stock theater.

7. In what year did TBTS stage its first performance? Find answers on page 12

Photo by Mark Turek, courtesy of Theatre By The Sea

Kaléa Leverette (Little Eva) and the cast of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical

SUMMER MUSICALS

Check schedule for children’s shows, concerts, and more

A CHORUS LINE: May 29-June 22

TOOTSIE: June 26-July 20

THE SOUND OF MUSIC: July 24-August 17

42ND STREET: August 21-September 15

364 Cards Pond Road, Matunuck TheatreByTheSea.com ANSWERS FROM PAGE 10: 1: 100 2: 55 3: 200 4: Duck Press

theaters across the country have struggled to bring audiences back. But TBTS, with production values on par with Broadway, sells an astounding 95 percent of seats to subscribers, leaving very few single tickets available. The South County audience is eager for a fun night, and the theater delivers.

“The cost of producing has skyrocketed,” Hanney concedes, adding, “I try to figure out a way to control costs without sacrificing quality.” One way to do that is to repurpose the sets, costumes, and ready performers for a longer run elsewhere. While Hanney also owns and operates North Shore Music Theatre (Beverly, Massachusetts),

its in-the-round stage means he can’t drop TBTS shows into that venue, and vice-versa.

So the impresario continues to conjure novel entertainment ideas. He’s in the process of building an entertainment megaplex in Maine that includes movie theaters, a stage for live shows, and a cabaret space all under one roof, which could give shows from North Shore and TBTS an extended life beyond their four-week runs.

But his soul remains in tune with his 184-year-old barn. “My favorite thing is to look at my audience react to what I put on that stage, to look at their faces, their enjoyment,” he says. “I feel it in my bones. That makes me so happy.”

Bill Hanney, Impressario By The Sea

Photo courtesy of Theatre

By The Sea

Rhody Pets of the Month

By Karen Kalunian

Looking to welcome a new furry friend into your home? Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters around South County and across the state have dogs and cats ready to find their forever homes. Here are a bunch of pets ready to meet you, or reach out to the shelters to learn about even more adoptees.

If you have been thinking of adopting or if you know of an animal in need, please contact Karen Kalunian directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com.

Miss Hazel

BREED: Catahoula mixed breed

AGE: 4

GENDER: Female

Miss Hazel is a true beauty inside and out. She has a stunning coat of many colors, and she’s smart to boot. She sits like a perfect lady for her treats, and enjoys attention. If you have been looking for a loyal, loving companion, you just found her. Keep in mind that she does want to be your one and only princess.

CHARLESTOWN ANIMAL SHELTER

401-364-1211

Nebula

BREED: Tabby

AGE: 2

GENDER: Female

With her striped coat of gray and chocolate brown, Nebula will captivate you with her ethereal beauty. Her best home would be an adult home filled with lots of love, time, patience, and lots of yummy treats! She does long for attention, but at her own pace. If you’d like to meet this beautiful star, fill out an application online. The rescue will email you with more information about how you can meet Nebula and maybe even make your home her permanent galaxy!

SCRUFFY PAWS ANIMAL RESCUE

ScruffyPawsAnimalRescue.org

Miss Hazel Nebula

Photos (left and center) by Karen Kalunian, (R) by Jess Woody

BREED: Hounds

AGE: 1

GENDER: Three male, one female Four precious pups were found abandoned in the woods and left to fend for themselves. Luckily, someone spotted them and brought them to Exeter Animal Shelter. They are all beautiful and have been receiving lots of

and attention, but dream of finding loving homes of their very own.

Hound Puppies

Rhody Health

Express Care can take the sting out of

summer

By Sarah Toatley

Wellness in coastal communities takes on a unique flavor, especially during the vibrant summer months. It’s a time when the sun invites us to embrace outdoor activities, but it also calls for a mindful approach to healthcare. From sunburns to jellyfish stings and more, Robert Gianfrocco, DO, Medical Director, Express Care, South County Health, dives into the significance of addressing summer health needs and how Express Care facilities play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of local residents and visitors alike.

What are some typical summertime health concerns?

DR. GIANFROCCO: Summer brings its own set of health considerations, particularly with activities like swimming, beach sports, and outdoor dining. From sunburns to dehydration and even water-related accidents, the season requires a proactive approach to healthcare. Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, such as Babesiosis and Anaplasmosis, pose a significant concern during the summer. Ticks thrive in wooded and grassy areas, making outdoor activities like hiking and camping potential hotspots for exposure. It’s crucial for individuals to take preventive measures such as wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent containing DEET, and performing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors. In the unfortunate event of a tick bite, Express Care facilities can provide timely evaluation and treatment, including proper tick removal techniques and, if necessary, initiating appropriate antibiotic therapy to prevent Lyme disease and other complications.

What advice do you have for all the sun-worshippers out there?

DR. GIANFROCCO: Practicing sun safety helps maintain skin health and prevent sunburns, premature aging, and skin cancer. I recommend applying sunscreen with a high SPF regularly, seeking shade during peak sun hours, and wearing protective clothing and hats. Despite precautions, sunburns can still occur, leading to discomfort and potential complications. Sunburns can be relieved through topical treatments, pain medications, and recommendations for proper skin care. It’s important to seek treatment for severe sunburns. Providers can offer guidance on identifying signs of sun-related complications, such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke, and when further medical attention may be necessary.

What advice would you offer to visitors who may encounter health issues during the summer but lack immediate access to primary care?

DR. GIANFROCCO: For individuals facing health concerns during the summer, Express Care serves as a reliable resource for prompt medical

attention. Whether treating jellyfish stings, heat exhaustion, or minor fractures from beach volleyball, Express Care providers offer efficient, on-the-spot care, ensuring that individuals can get back to enjoying their summer activities as soon as possible. And of course, in the case of severe or life-threatening conditions, call 911 or visit an Emergency Department.

When is it best to head to the Emergency Department over Express Care?

DR. GIANFROCCO: Symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe allergic reactions, or signs of stroke or heart attack warrant urgent evaluation in an emergency setting. Additionally, traumatic injuries like major fractures, severe burns, or deep lacerations may necessitate specialized care available at an Emergency Department. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms or injuries, it’s crucial to seek emergency medical care promptly to ensure the best possible outcome. Express Care facilities are equipped to handle a wide range of non-life-threatening conditions, but for emergencies, always prioritize immediate access to comprehensive emergency medical services.

In partnership with South County Health

100 Kenyon Avenue, Wakefield 401-782-8000 SouthCountyHealth.org

Te Must List

June 9: The 15th Annual Cause for Paws Car Show , a benefit for Friends of the Warwick Animal Shelter, roars into town with classic cars, including antiques, hot rods, muscle cars, exotics, rat rods, and vintage fire trucks. Warwick, FriendsRI.org

Through June 9: Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, and other Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in Seussical JR. , an inspiring musical extravaganza produced by Tony Award winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. Westerly, GraniteTheatre.org

Through June 22: The summer season at Theatre By The Sea kicks off with the groundbreaking American musical A Chorus Line , the story of 17 dancers competing for a coveted spot in a Broadway musical. Matunuck, TheatreByTheSea.com

June 2: Find one-of-a-kind keepsakes including martini glasses, home decor, jewelry, and ocean-themed creations by local artisans at the Sea Glass Festival held at the Windjammer Surf Bar, an event that benefits local charities. Westerly, Eventbrite: Sea Glass Festival

June 8: The Tomaquag Museum celebrates Strawberry Thanksgiving with an afternoon of programming including traditional drumming, dance, demonstrations from indigenous artists, vendors, and delicious food at Ninigret Park. Charlestown, TomaquagMuseum.org

June 15: Performances by Valerie Tutson, Sidy Maiga, and more are part of Open Farm Day with Rhode Island Black Story Storytellers at Casey Farm, part of North Kingstown’s 350th anniversary activities. Saunderstown, My.HistoricNewEngland.org

June 22: The fourth annual celebration of South County Pride is a day of fun featuring live music, food trucks, local vendors, a car parade, and a drag show with performers Ninny Nothin, Brae Edwards, and Lucy Diamonds. Wakefield, SouthCountyPride.org

June 22: The annual Chorus of Westerly Summer Pops Concert returns with an exciting program of classical masterworks and popular music for chorus and orchestra in a free performance at Wilcox Park. ChorusOfWesterly.org

June 25: The Watch Hill Sunset Concert series kicks off with the gypsy jazz rhythms of Caravan of Thieves and continues every other Tuesday evening through August 20 on the green on Bay Street. Facebook: Watch Hill Sunset Concerts

June 29: Enjoy a morning of learning Modern Calligraphy & Terracotta Pot Lettering with both ink pots and nibs and Sharpies at The Farmer’s Daughter. Materials are included at this make-and-take event. South Kingstown, TheFarmersDaughter.com

Photo courtesy of Friends of the Warwick Animal Shelter

15th Annual Cause for Paws Car Show

Robert K. Dyer MD, MPH

Nancy Kate Staley PA-C

Vincent D. Criscione, MD

Katie Sliney MSPAS, PA-C

Meighan Dingle Blanco, FNP-BC

Tori Jedson MSPAS, PA-C

Jennifer Johnson, APRN, NP-BC

Lauren Volpe MSPAS, PA-C

Next Chapter

Kids’ activity area, cafe, and wine bar are among new ownership changes to Westerly bookstore

By Jenna Kaplan

In the heart of Westerly, a new chapter unfolds on Canal Street where the storied walls of the former Savoy Bookshop & Café have transformed into Martin House Books. Owned by Gretchen Miller, a local bibliophile with a rich legacy of bookshop experience from her mother’s store in Massachusetts, Martin House is set to be more than just a store – it aims to become a community cornerstone. “Opening Martin House Books has been a dream come true, and I am excited to contribute to Westerly’s vibrant arts scene,” Miller shares. “Every book here tells two stories: one within its pages and another of this building’s remarkable journey.”

In late April, the shop named for the building in which it occupies opened its doors, welcoming readers of all ages to explore, stay awhile, and immerse themselves in a realm of endless imagination. The store’s layout is thoughtfully designed, offering a wide selection of genres to ensure every reader easily finds something special. Like Savoy, the children’s section is on the lower level but has space for activity tables and kid-sized seating – painted by Miller and her husband Michael – to resemble mushrooms, or toadstools.

Another homage to the building is Cafe 1888, referencing the year the Martin House was constructed. Managed by Brittany Fox of Narragansett’s famed Q ueen of Cups, it’s more than just pours of products from Newport-based Empire Tea and Coffee; it’s also a wine bar, and boasts a menu of soups, sandwiches, bagels, and salads. Lingering – or even working – is encouraged.

Community engagement is the pulse of Martin House Books. Collaborative initiatives with local schools, libraries, and book groups are underway, weaving closer community ties through shared narratives and dialogues. Additionally, the bookstore transforms into a secluded venue for private gatherings like baby showers.

BOOK GIFTING MADE EASY

Enjoy giving books as gifts but stumped about what to select for the recipient? Martin House Books offers curated selections; just provide information about the individual, and the short stack is ready, all tied up with a bow.

Children’s Corner

Since its opening on Independent Bookstore Day, Martin House Books has resonated with energy and enthusiasm, rapidly becoming a third space for locals. “The community has been so welcoming and supportive,” Miller says with a smile. “We are very much looking forward to the arrival of summer guests. Events are in the works!” 10 Canal Street, Westerly, MartinHouseBooks.com; follow @martin_house_books and @cafe_1888_westerly

Photo courtesy of Gretchen Miller

HOME & STYLE

Home | Profile | Garden | Shop | Rhody Gem

Soulful Style

How an industrious Bristol couple created a charming and personal home

From The Soulful Cottage: Creating a Charming and Personal Home by Fifi O’Neill, CICO Books. Photography by Mark Lohman © CICO Books 2024

It’s so perfectly fitting how the name and style of textile artist Carol Riley reflect the expression “the life of Riley.” Everything about her home in Bristol exudes easygoing, carefree charm. A native of Dublin, she moved to Rhode Island in the 1980s with her English-born husband Mike, a world squash referee and coach. “It’s the longest we’ve lived anywhere,” says Riley. In between raising four children, the couple have done a lot of work on the 2,000-square-foot cottage over the years. They have brought in vintage details, well-worn character, and incorporated many personal mementos.

Though the house is more than 80 years old, Riley considers it young compared to buildings back in the old country. She recalls being instantly drawn to the cottage for its charming shape, architectural details, and yard full of cherry blossom trees. “It reminded us of the cottages of Devon and Cornwall in England.” However, the interior was in dire need of improvements, both structural and cosmetic. “It was quite simply ugly, with loads of fake panels and other unsightly and deteriorating materials,” she says.

As the couple set out to improve and beautify the quaint home, they made a great team. “Mike is amazing, he goes along with my ideas and makes them happen. He is self-taught and brilliant.” Riley herself is blessed with an enviable ability to see possibilities where others might see nothing at all. A drab old sofa, a bland kitchen cabinet, a simple lampshade frame, all have ugly-duckling potential in her eyes. “It’s wonderful to transform pieces,” she observes. “But the downside of that is that it’s hard for me to throw anything away!”

Though it resembles a charming old gate, the backdrop to the porch sofa is actually a 1970s headboard revived with paint. The exotic hanging lantern was a bargain from an auction

Photography by Mark Lohman

© CICO Books 2024

The cottage is an inspirational setting for Riley to work on her design business, Tatters. “I do a bit of everything: clothing, furnishings, bags and jewelry. I’m constantly changing things around. It’s not that I get bored, it’s just that my mind is always working.”

It’s the same creative drive that compelled her to transform an old church in nearby Warren into her very own tea room and boutique named The Church Palace. With the help of the entire Riley family, she has achieved remarkable results.

Whether it’s clothing or rooms, Riley is an expert at bringing in a mix of salvaged, handmade, and reimagined elements. Following her love of things that transcend time and place, the Irish maverick and her enterprising husband have turned a once forgotten cottage and an abandoned church into considered and artful spaces. Both are filled with items that keep pieces of the past alive and celebrate their original stories with both function and soul.

Photography by Mark Lohman © CICO Books 2024

The bedroom’s color scheme is inspired by the masses of hydrangeas that grow right outside. The side table is a kitchen cabinet covered with salvaged beadboard.

Throw pillows created from Riley’s extensive fabric stash

The Soulful Cottage: Creating a Charming and Personal Home by

Fifi O’Neill

Photography by Mark Lohman

Get Rhody Style

Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.

Tea Time

Along with a steeping hot pot, patrons will enjoy finger sandwiches and treats that could include fresh-baked scones with butter and jam, lemon hearts, fig crumble bars, crumpets, surprise pastries, and more at Riley’s latest venture, Tatters Afternoon Tea Room. It all happens by reservation at the white church transformed into The Church Palace at 324 Main Street, Warren.

Riled Up

Whether it’s gingham drawstring pants embellished with trimming, a patchwork coat made of luxe remnants, or vintage finds, those who like to peruse and be distinctive are sure to have a good time shopping. Check Tatters Handmade Clothing on Facebook for hours or call 401-561-3703.

True Nature

“My style has stayed pretty much the same. Thrift shops and found items.” When asked why, Riley simply states, “the ease of living with it. Unpretentious.” With its timeworn furnishings and floral accents, the cottage has very few of the quintessential trappings generally found in a home so close to the water. Riley muses, “I don’t like the coastal look, to be honest, you know, anchors and lobsters are just not my thing.”

Summers on Dodge

NYC designer’s seasonal outpost on Block Island sells decor for classic beach cottage living

By Elyse Major

KEEPING UP WITH JONES

“Winfield’s for dinner, Dick’s Fish for a fresh catch, the Block Island Farmers Market (I especially love Tracy Finn’s Bodhi’s Bees honey; we sell it at our shop), Mary MacGill for jewelry, and The Block Island Historical Society for a rainy day deep dive into local lore.”

While many Rhode Islanders may take Block Island for granted, it truly is a special place, largely prized for what it doesn’t have. There are zero largechain businesses, no traffic lights, and no need for public transportation. What it does boast are unspoiled bluffs and beaches, lighthouses, and the seasonal shop of New York City-based design consultant Tori Jones, whose primary retail space is in Manhattan. Over the years, Jones has built a solid portfolio of credentials, working with brands like Schumacher, Veranda , Elle Decor , and House Beautiful

So why Block Island? “I grew up spending summers here and worked at several shops and galleries in town,” Jones begins, citing admiration for the many small businesses on the island. “I always dreamt about having my own little outpost.” After many years of working in the corporate world as a design editor and creative

services director, she was ready to give it a go, and Block Island became her testing ground to see if an art and antiques venture was viable.

“I had this idea to do a three-week pop-up shop selling antiques and vintage finds sourced largely from New England, kind of all the things I imagined in a dream summer cottage,” she says. When the small annex building on Dodge Street became available, she jumped at the chance. This will be Jones’ third full summer in the store she fills largely with antiques, local art, and one-offs. “We hope there will always be something new to discover with each visit.”

This past January, Jones opened a space in Manhattan at The Gallery at 200 Lex, on the 10th floor of the New York Design Center. The Gallery is a destination for antiques in the city with 33,000 square feet of space and over 50 vintage dealers. Similar to her Block Island shop, Jones’ space is replete with painted furniture, antique textiles, and that summer staple making a

NYC TO BI

“I spend a lot of time on the Northeast Regional train from Penn Station to Westerly. From there, I hop on a New England Airlines flight at the Westerly airport – they have a flight every hour and it’s only a 12-minute trip (with glorious views to boot).”

The shop always includes a selection of handmade patchwork

Tori Jones Studio is a one-stop shop for fine art, one-of-a-kind antiques, and lazy summer afternoon activities, from books to art supplies

comeback: wicker. “In New York, our clients are largely interior designers shopping for client projects; on the island, it’s primarily homeowners, vacationers, people coming in right off the beach. Both spaces are made up of pieces I love and I hope there’s a warm, inviting feeling that resonates.”

On opening the doors of the saltbox shop, Jones smiles and says, “it still feels exciting and full of promise. I love summer, and the idea of an all-American summer in New England is very romanticized in my head.” Plans for the season ahead include the second installment of the popular Block Island Summer , an exhibit of 35-millimeter photography of the island in the 1970s by Klaus Gemming, set to debut Memorial Day weekend. “The shop is stocked with everything from fine art to canvas sun hats; we have a range in price points and smaller items that can be easily taken home as a souvenir.” Open through Columbus Day. 441 Dodge Street, Barn Annex, ToriJonesStudio.com

Photos by Dylan Chandler, courtesy of Tori Jones

Jones at the Dodge Street shop

quilts

Hunters and Gatherers

A headlining UK floral designer/author brings added flourish to this year’s Newport Flower Show

By Elyse Major

Like a prized perennial bloom, The Newport Flower Show returns this month to Rosecliff June 21-23. The Gilded Age mansion, with its striking white glazed terra-cotta exterior and design, which takes its cue from Versailles, makes a grand setting for the 28th year of the event held by The Preservation Society of Newport

County. The theme for this year’s show is “At Home,” and everything from displays to classes to the marketplace are sure to inspire all to bring beautiful ideas back to their abodes. From the main foyer of this former residence, attendees can wander the salon, ballroom, and dining room, admiring artist interpretations of everyday items in flowers, before making

their way to the terrace for more exhibits. Be prepared for a walk to the oceanside backlawn to observe a home orchard, cutting and pollinator gardens, and examples of outdoor living spaces. Don’t miss the daily presentations by UK-based award-winning garden designer, floral artist, photographer, and author, Lucy Hunter. Learn more at NewportMansions.org

Photo courtesy of Ryland Peters & Small

Hunter at a recent workshop in New Zealand

“Using a limited color palette and repetitive shapes produces a calm and reassuring effect,” says Hunter of the apricot display

Lucy the Flower Hunter

The North Wales author on her upcoming lectures, carousing blossoms, and exploring Newport

What can attendees expect from your Newport Flower Show programs?

A warm and lighthearted look at how a creative life spent with flowers and gardens at its core can lead you to the most unexpected of places. How we sometimes overlook the everyday ordinary and if we take inspiration from that, we can turn it into the extraordinary. There will be local, seasonal flowers to delight, and demonstrations on how to fill vases and urns for every corner of your home.

Your work embodies the breathtaking beauty in imperfection. What do you hope to bring to a location known for its shiny opulence?

This is Hunter’s second book published by Ryland Peters & Small. Her first is The Flower Hunter: Seasonal Flowers Inspired by Nature and Gathered from the Garden (2022)

Rosecliff is the setting for this year’s Newport Flower Show

I’d love to think that the two can sit beside and inform each other beautifully. I adore and aspire to a bit of opulence in my soil-covered-hands world and I’m certainly inspired by old world glamor from the 1920s both in the US and Europe. But just as strong architectural bones form the backbone of any good garden design, the flowers should always soften the edges and bring a little lightness to the party. Nothing in nature is perfect, but it is that imperfection that tells the story so beautifully and gives, to my mind, its authenticity. Roses that have a glorious arching habit and the most wonderful scent that stops you in your tracks; a branch that has fought for light at the back of the border and has an incredible wild shape; dahlias being rowdy in the herbaceous bed; daisies that are a bit windblown and look like they’ve just had the best night out and now carry their slightly sore heads home –they, to my mind, can tell a wonderful story in a vase or urn, soften those opulent edges, and bring a bit of romance to the proceedings.

What are your favorite flowers to work with and why?

I’ve been lucky enough to work in very different parts of the globe over the last couple of years. I adore working with flowers that grow naturally in a particular area. Growing up in the UK I’m always waiting impatiently for the start of the rose season in June. I don’t mean big, loud red roses that have been exported halfway across the globe, but garden roses in delicate shades of raspberry or parchment. I also give a little whoop when my vines start to come out in the garden. A long trailing piece of clematis wandering through a bowl of flowers can offer an unexpected ribbon of color and texture.

Are there things you are excited about visiting and experiencing while you’re in Newport?

A trip around the mansions goes without saying. I’ve been once before with my husband and teenager in late-October about 15 years ago. I remember it being an extremely cold, wet day and I now have a recollection of The Breakers floating on a bed of fog. It would be lovely to see the gardens and bottom part of the house! Follow on Instagram @lucytheflowerhunter

Photo (top) courtesy of Ryland Peters & Small, (bottom) Courtesy of The Preservation

Society of Newport County

Silver Anniversary

With their fine sterling jewelry business turning 25, two brothers pause to reflect and celebrate

By Ann Martini

Main Street shopping districts are often known for their specialty stores – think Stock Culinary Goods on Providence’s Hope Street or Beauty and the Bath in Wickford. Green River Silver Co. has brick-and-mortars in both of these charming locales, and in April, celebrated their 25th anniversary. The East Side store is tucked between two salons, exactly where it’s been since it opened in 1999. It sells silver jewelry. That’s it. Not sweaters or T-shirts or bells or whistles. Owners Dan and John Goldman, native Rhode Island brothers, opened a second location in Wickford in 2002. The funny thing is that the whole business was born out of that most elusive happenstance: a chance meeting. In the 1990s, the brothers were living in the Summit neighborhood in Providence and working – Dan in finance processing mortgage

applications, while John traveled back and forth to New York City, selling all sorts of merchandise at fairs and festivals. During one trip, John sat next to a man who was on his way to Mexico to buy silver. They chatted for a while, and before too long, John was on his way with him to the silver capital of Mexico, Taxco, a city 100 miles southwest of Mexico City. Silver was first mined there in the 1500s and since it has established itself as ground zero for the intricate Aztec- and Spanish-inspired designs Mexican jewelry is so often known for. Soon, it was all John was selling, and when a retail space became available on Hope Street, he and Dan decided to go into business together.

While the brothers wanted the focus of Green River Silver Co. to be Mexican silver, John did eventually find himself in other parts of the globe – Indonesia, Bali, Jaipur, India, and the America Southwest – looking for unique, hand-crafted

A

pieces for the store. They now sell work by a few local artisans as well as a Rhode Island collection of earrings, pendants, and bracelets featuring anchors, sailboats, waves, and more.

Green River’s customers have been remarkably loyal over the years. “In a world full of disposable jewelry,” says Dan, “our customers understand how authentic we are. We know the people who make the jewelry, and they appreciate that.” Now that this silver shop has celebrated its silver anniversary, though, there’s no end in sight. While they don’t foresee expanding their physical locations, the brothers are focusing on growing their website traffic, so that tourists who might have found them in Providence or Wickford can find them again online.

“We’re not going anywhere,” says Dan. “We love what we do. We have amazing employees and customers. We love our locations. Life is good.” Learn more at GreenRiverSilv er.com

Photos courtesy of Green River Silver Co.

portion of each Rhode Island Jewelry Collection sale is donated directly to Save the Bay

Nancy Elizabeth Prophet, Negro Head , before 1927. Gift of Miss Eleanor B. Green.

Owners John (left) and Dan Goldman, flank buyer and graphic designer Amie Silva

83 Brown Street, Wickford

Changing Tides

Gift Shop

What it is:

A gift shop inspired by location with branded merch and handmade goods.

Where to find it:

From Post Road in Warwick, make your way to Arnolds Neck Drive where, as you skirt Apponaug Cove, you’ll see a fishing shanty perched over the water. Park in the lot, and walk up the ramp to the blue door!

What makes it a Rhody Gem?

Since 2000, Judy Hummel has been selling Apponaug T-shirts, handmade baskets – both Nantucket and “regular” – plus jewelry, resin-art products, hand-turned ice cream scoops, and so much more from inside this modest charmer perched above the water. “It’s an old fishing shanty from back in the 1900s,” Hummel explains, referencing a picture of the structure that hangs on the wall. “Out of 50 fishing shanties [in the area], there are only two left, and one is mine!” Inside, shoppers will find all kinds of unique items in neat displays. “I’m all about my baskets, handmade goods, bags, and shirts, and 90 percent of my shop is made in New England,” says Hummel, who’s motivated by the backstories of items when it comes to stocking the shelves: “Who made it, how it was made, or why I carry a certain vendor.”

Changing Tides

355 Arnolds Neck Drive, Warwick 401-499-1302, @changingtidesgifts Friday to Sunday, 12-5pm

Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Elyse@ProvidenceOnline.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!

Photo by Elyse Major

IT’S Festival TIME THE OCEAN STATE COMES ALIVE WITH SUMMERTIME EVENTS OFFERING SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

BY KEN ABRAMS

It’s summer, which means outdoor festival season has officially arrived in southern New England. One-of-a-kind spectacles featuring food, film, music, art, and more can be found all summer long around Rhode Island. Of course, the beauty of the festival is that there’s usually something for everyone. For example, if you’re not into the band playing on stage, wait 20 minutes or try a different stage. If you don’t dig oysters, there’s bound to be delicious pizza somewhere nearby. Not a fan of someone’s artwork? Head to the next tent. So get out and enjoy the season with our guide to the best summer festivals in Rhode Island. Did we miss your favorite event? Let us know! Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com or tag #heyrhodyphotos on Instagram

BOATERS ENJOY THE NEWPORT FOLK FEST FROM THE BAY

Photo courtesy of Discover Newport

Music

BE FEST-READY

SUGGESTIONS TO MAKE THE DAY EVEN BETTER

• Buy tickets early

• Dress comfortably

• Apply sunscreen and bug spray

• Bring cash

• Charge devices

• Stay hydrated

• Be patient in lines

• Check if pets are allowed

PROVIDENCE PORCHFEST

PROVIDENCE PORCHFEST

JUNE

8

Enjoy an afternoon of free music at the second annual Providence Porchfest, happening on the East Side of the capital city. Porchfest means just that – live music at over two dozen homes and businesses hosting over 60 musicians on porches, in driveways, and on front lawns. The festival includes local and regional singer-songwriters, duos, and full bands performing in a variety of genres, including Mark Cutler, Allysen Callery, Beth Barron, Ike Dee, High Plains, Funkademic, and Scruffy Aristocrats. Pro v idencePorchFest.com

NEWPORT CLASSICAL

JULY 4-21

The Newport Classical Music Festival returns to historic locations around the City by the Sea, including The Breakers, The Elms, and Castle Hill Inn. With 27 concerts, the festival has something for everyone, with renowned players, world premieres, and family programs. Highlights include the opening night Fourth of July Patriotic Pops concert; Opera Night with a performance of Bizet’s Carmen ; Italian Strings in Nature, an outdoor concert at the Norman Bird Sanctuary, and Brazilian-American composer-in-residence Clarice Assad, who will be premiering a piece commissioned for the festival. NewportClassical.org

NEWPORT CLASSICAL

Photo (top) courtesy of Newport Classical, (bottom) by Ken Abrams

Music

KINGSTON CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL

JULY 24-AUGUST 4

Under artistic director Natalie Zhu, this classical music festival of six concerts over more than 10 days brings veteran players and emerging artists together for specially curated concerts at the University of Rhode Island’s Edwards Hall. Highlights include festival founder’s David Kim and Friends, the Dover Q uartet, the jazz-influenced Shades of Blue, and Mediterranean Plectrum and Strings, an enchanting program with Israeli mandolin player Jacob Reuven and American guitarist Adam Levin. The festival closes with picks by Zhu: Natalie’s Favorites, an evening of Mozart, Mendelssohn, and Schubert. KingstonChamberMusic.org

NEWPORT FOLK FESTIVAL

JULY 26-28

The annual music festival at Fort Adams State Park, which sold out seconds after tickets went on sale, returns with a star-studded lineup of established stars and up-and-coming artists, many who go on to remarkable solo careers. In recent years, top artists like Dolly Parton, James Taylor, Paul Simon, and Joni Mitchell have arrived unannounced, thrilling festival fans. This year’s roster includes award-winning performers Black Pumas, Molly Tuttle, Orville Peck, Rhiannon Giddens, Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, Adrianne Lenker, and Killer Mike. NewportFolk.org

NEWPORT JAZZ FESTIVAL

AUGUST 2-4

Popular music festivals first appeared in the US in the City by the Sea, making the Newport Jazz Festival the granddaddy of them all. Celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, Newport Jazz still serves as a model for how to run a music festival. This year’s edition continues to push the boundaries of jazz, something the festival has always been known for. Headliners include Andre 3000, Elvis Costello, Laufey, Nile Rodgers & Chic, Samara Joy, Kamasi Washington, and artistic director Christian McBride. Get your tickets soon as a sell-out is expected. NewportJazz.org

NEWPORT JAZZ FESTIVAL

NEWPORT FOLK FESTIVAL

Photos courtesy of Discover Newport

Music

FOLKS FEST VIII

AUGUST 17

Experience the eclectic vibe of Warren at Folks Fest, a free day-into-night event with music, food, and art, including nine musical acts between two stages along with art and wares from over 30 Rhode Island artists and makers. There will also be a free kids’ crafts tent, recycle-a-bike, and great eats from local restaurants Chomp Kitchen & Drinks, La Piñata, Mac’s Screaming Street Corn, and Mumsy’s Ice Cream. The festival is a benefit for The Collaborative, an arts organization based in town. Warren, TheCollaborative02885.org

RHODE ISLAND FOLK FESTIVAL

AUGUST 25

Formerly the Providence Folk Festival, this free music festival features three stages of the best local and regional talent at Rose Larisa Memorial Park in Riverside, across the street from the Crescent Park Carousel. Headliners include regional all-stars Tom Rush, Dan Lilley, Tai & Moon, Michelle Malone, Dan Blakeslee, Divey, and more. Craft vendors and food trucks will be there. Bring the family and well-behaved pups. Riverside, RhodeIslandFolkFestival.com

RHYTHM & ROOTS FESTIVAL

AUGUST 30-SEPTEMBER 1

Rhode Island’s homegrown Rhythm & Roots Festival is back Labor Day Weekend with an outstanding lineup for 2024. Headliners for the three-day festival include Emmylou Harris, Old Crow Medicine Show, Larkin Poe, DriveBy Truckers, and Shemekia Copeland, alongside traditional music from a slew of Louisiana bands who bring authentic Cajun and zydeco music to the Northeast. Come for three stages of music, stay for the food trucks, vendors, parades, and more. Camping at Ninigret State Park is available. Charlestown, RhythmAndRoots.com

FOLKS FEST, WARREN

RHYTHM & ROOTS, CHARLESTOWN

Photo (top) courtesy of Folks Fest, (bottom) by Ken Abrams

Arts

NARRAGANSETT ART FESTIVAL

JUNE 22-23

The Narragansett Art Festival, sponsored by The Rotary Club of Wakefield, is celebrating its 41st year in Veterans’ Park near the Towers at Narragansett Beach. Strolling the breezy lawn, peruse art for sale from dozens of participating artists in categories including oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, drawing, graphics, photography, sculpture, and other three-dimensional media. Narragansett, WakefieldRotary.org

WICKFORD ART FESTIVAL

JULY 13-14

Over 200 artists will display their work in a variety of mediums at the annual event held in Wilson Park. Admission is free and you can purchase art in ceramics, wood, wearable and decorative fiber, furniture, fine jewelry, drawing, etching, glass, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, pyrography, and sculpture. And don’t forget to visit historic Wickford, just a quarter mile from the park, while you’re in town. North Kingstown, WickfordArt.org

FRINGE PVD

JULY 14-27

PVD’s eclectic summer festival celebrates its 11th year with numerous events featuring local, national, and international independent performing artists. Check out the extensive mix of magic arts, solo acts, and experimental multimedia works that cross – and even defy – genres. Performances take place around Providence’s Valley neighborhood, at locations including WaterFire Arts Center, Farm Fresh RI, and the Steel Yard. Pro v idence, FringePVD.org

WICKFORD ART FESTIVAL

Photos by Michael Masi, courtesy of Wickford Art Association

Arts

NEWPORT DANCE FESTIVAL

JULY 17-21

The Newport Contemporary Ballet hosts this annual event on an outdoor stage at the Great Friends Meeting House. Each evening performance features a unique lineup of dances drawn on the talent, artistry, and unique styles of the festival’s visiting dance companies, and the resident company, which performs year-round. Reserve your tickets; bring your own picnic, blankets, and lawn chairs; and enjoy worldclass dance in a relaxed outdoor setting. NewportContemporaryBallet.org

FLICKERS’ RHODE ISLAND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

AUGUST 6-11

The Rhode Island International Film Festival is a major event held annually. The week-long program includes special showings across the state with premiere works in Providence. Flickers is the largest public film festival in New England and an Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences qualifying event in three categories. Check the website for films and locations. Film-Festival.org

PAWTUCKET ARTS FEST

AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 8

One of the state’s largest festivals celebrates the historic city of Pawtucket. Running over a week, festivities include art installations, performances, music, food, and more. Dozens of events, including the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra’s Pops in the Park, Chinese Dragon Boat Races, Mixed Magic Theatre, Pawtucket Flavor Fest, live music, fireworks, local vendors, food trucks, and more, have all been a part of previous festivals. Check the website for updates. PawtucketArtsFestival.org

FLICKERS’ RI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Photo by Mike Braca, courtesy of RIIFF

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Food

CHARLESTOWN SEAFOOD FESTIVAL

AUGUST 2-4

The award-winning festival was the first of its kind in the country and continues to be one of the most popular summer events in the state. Enjoy Rhode Island’s best lobsters, steamers, chowder, fish and chips, clam cakes, corn on the cob, and a raw bar with native oysters. Bring the family for amusement rides, rock wall climbing, kayaking, a car show, and live music with top bands on the midway. Stay late Saturday night for fireworks. CharlestownSeafoodFestival.com

FARM FRESH RI LOCAL FOOD FEST

AUGUST 13

Join local growers and producers at the annual Farm Fresh RI event to support the mission of the popular community-based organization. You’ll be able to meet Rhody’s star chefs and watch as they prepare meals, while enjoying local wine, beer, signature cocktails, and live music. The event takes place in Newport at Castle Hill Inn’s Chalet Patio and Lawn, with a gorgeous water-view setting overlooking the Newport Bridge. Advance tickets only. Newport, FarmFreshRI.org

CHARLESTOWN SEAFOOD FESTIVAL

Photos by Heather Paliotta, courtesy of Charlestown Seafood Festival

Community

NK TURNS 350

SINCE JANUARY, RESIDENTS OF NORTH KINGSTOWN HAVE BEEN CELEBRATING LIKE IT’S 1674 TO COMMEMORATE THE SESQUICENTENNIAL OF THE FOUNDING OF THEIR TOWN. LOOK FOR A FAMILY DAY CELEBRATION ON SEPTEMBER 14 AND 350TH ANNIVERSARY PARADE ON OCTOBER 5, ALONG WITH OTHER ACTIVITIES. NORTHKINGSTOWNRI.GOV

JEWISH CULTURE FEST

JUNE 2

The Jewish Culture Fest at the Dwares JCC in Providence features authentic Klezmer music, dance, comedy, the Rock-a-Baby kid zone stage, community art, storytelling, an open-air artisan market, delicious food, a beer garden, whiskey tasting, and more. Highlights include Ezekiel’s Wheels, one of the world’s top klezmer ensembles; Myq Kaplan, a nationally known standup comedian; Raza, a project that explores the feminine sound in old Hasidic melodies; and local performer and author Mark Binder. Pro v idence, JewishAllianceRI.org

GASPEE DAYS

THROUGH JUNE

9

Pawtuxet Village is home to Gaspee Days, a commemoration of the burning of the British customs ship in 1772 by Rogue Island patriots. Memorial Day Weekend features the Arts and Crafts Festival, followed by Symphony in the Park, and fireworks on June 1. Things really get busy on June 8-9 with the 5K road race, a colonial encampment at Pawtuxet Park, the blessing of the fleet, annual parade, and the reenactment of the burning of Gaspee. Warwick, Gaspee.com

RHODE ISLAND PRIDEFEST

JUNE 15

Celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community at PrideFest, which returns to PVD’s District Park for a full day of programming including live music, vendors, a beer and wine tent, and more. At night, the streets come alive with a dazzling display of vibrant colors, electrifying floats, and the spirited energy of the community and its allies at the Illuminated Night Parade, a dazzling procession of diversity, love, and acceptance. Pro v idence, PrideRI.org

GASPEE DAYS, WARWICK

PRIDEFEST, PROVIDENCE

Photo (top) by Elyse Major, (bottom) by Small Frye Photography

Community

SOUTH COUNTY PRIDE

JUNETEENTH RI, PROVIDENCE

JUNETEENTH RI

JUNE 22

The 6th annual Juneteenth RI, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, comes to 195 District Park in Providence. Join in on a day of celebration, with food trucks, vendors, and live entertainment, including this year’s headliner singer, songwriter, producer, and drummer Stokley. More musical acts to be announced. Pro v idence, JuneteenthRI.com

CULTUREFESTRI’24

JUNE 28-30

Culturefest RI ‘24 is an exciting weekend festival at the Southside Cultural Center of Rhode Island in collaboration with the Rosa Parks Resource Center. The weekend features three inspiring days of music, art, dance, vending and more. Join a gathering of like-minded souls coming together to celebrate diversity and the rich tapestry of the community through the lens of Black Americans. Pro v idence, CulturefestRI.com

PRIDE IN RI

Throughout the month of June, communities and organizations around the state plan activities to celebrate the voices and culture of LGBTQIA+ people through parades, flag-raising ceremonies, performances, and more. Held in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Inn riots in New York City, events are all about making youth and adults feel safe, welcome, appreciated, and seen.

JUNE 1:

East Providence Pride Celebration EastProvidenceRI.gov

JUNE 1: West Warwick Pride | Facebook: West Warwick Pride

JUNE 2: North Kingstown Pride Parade | TANKRI.org

JUNE 3: Pawtucket Pride | TourBlackstone.com

JUNE 7: Big Pride Flea | ProvidenceFlea.com

JUNE 9: Woonsocket Pride | @woonsocketpride

JUNE 15: Rhode Island PrideFest & Illuminated Night Parade | PrideRI.org

JUNE 22: South County Pride | SouthCountyPride.org

JUNE 29: East Greenwich Pride Celebration & Picnic | Facebook: EG Pride Celebration & Picnic

JUNE 28-30: Newport Pride Weekend | NewportPrideRI.org

TBA: Little Compton Pride

SEPTEMBER 12-14: Queer Block Island | QueerBlockIsland.com

Photo (top) courtesy of South County Pride, (bottom) by Justincase Photography, courtesy of Juneteenth RI

As we get older the age-related decline in muscle mass (8%/year) and strength known as SARCOPENIA is one of the major impediments to performing the tasks of daily living –Peter Attia M.D./ author of OUTLIVE.

Community

CAPE VERDEAN INDEPENDENCE DAY

FESTIVAL

JULY 7

Did you know Rhode Island is home to the highest percentage of residents of Cape Verdean ancestry of all 50 states? Learn more about the Ocean State’s Cape Verdean heritage at the Independence Day festival at India Point Park with family-friendly activities including music, dance, and authentic Cape Verdean cuisine. Pro v idence, Facebook: Cape Verdean Independence Day Festival

WASHINGTON COUNTY FAIR

AUGUST 14-18

The state’s largest county fair returns to the Richmond fairgrounds for a week of family fun, celebrating the rural heritage of Washington County and benefiting area nonprofits. The fair is also the region’s largest agricultural event featuring tractor pulls, the farm museum, livestock exhibits, and presentations from local FFA and 4H chapters. There’s country music daily, great food, and a full midway with rides from Rockwell Amusements. Richmond, WashingtonCountyFair-RI.com

CHINESE DRAGON BOAT RACE AND TAIWAN DAY FESTIVAL

AUGUST 31

The Chinese Dragon Boat Race and Taiwan Day Festival is an exciting day of family entertainment with traditional dragon boat races, cultural performances, Asian cuisine, and the popular dumpling eating contest. The event takes place along the Pawtucket River on fiberglass Taiwanese-style dragon boats gifted from the Republic of China (Taiwan) that incorporate the skill of flag-catching in each race. Taiwanese arts and crafts tables, lion dancers, interactive games, and kids’ activities make this a special event. Pawtucket, DragonBoatRI.com

CHINESE DRAGON BOAT RACE AND TAIWAN DAY FESTIVAL, PAWTUCKET

WASHINGTON COUNTY FAIR, RICHMOND

Photos (top) courtesy of Dragon Boat RI, (bottom) courtesy of Washington County Fair

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Developing Leaders since 2014 Gain Experience + Hone your Skills + Expand your Mindset LOCATION:

FEATURE

Good Surf Hunting

South County coastlines are ripe with opportunities to catch a wave, and find your perfect board

By Emily Olson

The siren songs of the Beach Boys and Brian Hyland’s promises of itsy bitsy teenie weenie bikinis first drew Peter Pan to the surfboard when he was just 13 years old, and 60 years later, he still spends his days in the surf. “It’s an addiction,” he says of the hobby that became a career through surfing competitions, surfboard design, and Narragansett Surf & Skate, the surf shop he opened in 2000, where he now teaches those new to the sport.

Over the decades, Pan’s seen some shifts in surf trends. “It never again hit the height of the ‘60s,” he says. “Surfing died out in the ‘70s, then bodyboarding became popular in the ‘80s but died out in the ‘90s.” COVID brought a new generation of surfers to the beach and many of them have stuck around. “It was one of the first sports you could go out and do and nobody was going to hassle you,” he reflects of its draw.

Photo courtesy of Peter Pan

But despite the changes in popularity, the thing that keeps serious surfers coming back for more is as steady as the tides. “The waves are really good here,” Pan says. “They’re probably the best waves on the East Coast because we have all reef and rock breaks, and we take every wind direction.”

Walle Hutton, who owns Rhode Island Surf Co. in Westerly, agrees, adding that the Rhode Island geography also has an impact. “We have a lot of diversity in the coastline,” he says. “In New Jersey, for example, the beaches all point the same direction, so if it’s windy in one spot, you find that same wind in another spot. Here you can find nooks and crannies where you get good surf when the surf in other places looks unrideable.”

A strong testament to the state’s underrated waves is Jeff Foye, a surfer who moved to Rhode Island from Southern California, who explains that the waves on each coast have different character.

“The surf here is less consistent than in California,” he says, “but if you think about it in terms of a year, I have more days of high-quality surf here. I think that has a lot to do with the coastline.” The SoCal surfer has also learned to appreciate surfing as a winter sport. “A few times I’ve been able to surf while it’s snowing. It kind of feels like you’re someplace you’re not supposed to be.”

Walle Hutton, owner of Rhode Island Surf Co.

Rhode Island Surf Co. stocks boards and more

Photos courtesy of Rhode Island Surf Co.

Where Martha, Giada and Ina would shop if they lived in South

County

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Pan also loves winter surfing because the hobbyists hunker down at home, leaving more waves for the serious surfers. But seasonal changes affect the type of equipment surfers need. “The wetsuit and gloves and boots you need to stay warm can add about 40 pounds, so you need a thick board that can float under all that extra weight,” he says. Hutton adds that winter surfing requires a balance between flotation and performance. “In the winter, wave profiles tend to be stronger because of nor’easters. So the boards do have to be able to float under the weight of a wetsuit, but they also have to perform well in steep surf.”

Most serious surfers have a quiver – a collection of boards that answer the different seasonal needs or the types of waves they enjoy. “It’s like an artist’s collection of paintbrushes,” says Hutton. When he opened his surf shop, he wanted to help surfers fine-tune their quivers. “I wanted to focus on the creatives and craftsmen of the industry,” he says of his approach. Eventually, he developed a broad network of artists and got into custom work. “There are so many combinations you can get from a block of foam. I wanted to rely on the expertise of other shapers to provide surfboards that work well in the wave profiles we have in Rhode Island.”

LEARN TO SURF

From lessons and camps to customizable boards and rentals, South County surf shops can connect you with the gear to chase the perfect wave.

CIVIL:

Boards, gear, and wetsuits (only at the Westerly shop) Westerly, WeAreCivil.com

DIAMONDBLUE SURF SHOP:

Clothing and gear, lessons, and board rentals Block Island, DiamondBlueBI.com

DRIFT SURF SHOP:

Custom boards and gear, lessons, rentals, and ding repair services Wakefield, DriftSurfShop.com

GANSETT GROMS:

Lessons and board/ equipment rentals Narragansett, GansettGroms.com

LEVY SURF DESIGNS ( LSD ) :

Custom boards and ding repair Narragansett, LevySurfDesigns.wordpress.com

MATUNUCK SURF SHOP:

Boards and gear, ding repair, and rentals SurfMatunuck.com

NARRAGANSETT SURF & SKATE SHOP:

Boards and gear, lessons, camp, and rentals NarragansettSurfAndSkate.com

PADDLE SURF RI:

Lessons, camps, and board rentals, plus kayaking and paddle boarding Westerly, PaddleSurfRI.com

RHODE ISLAND SURF CO.:

Custom boards, gear, wetsuits, and more Westerly, RhodeIslandSurfCo.com

SOUNDINGS SURF CO.:

Custom boards, which can be ordered online Charlestown, SoundingsSurfCo.com

WARM WINDS:

Boards, lessons, camp, and rentals Narragansett, WarmWinds.com

Local surfing legend

Peter Pan catching a wave

Photo courtesy of Peter Pan

Wednesday 6/5 5:00pm - 7:00pm JUST DANCE - INCLUSION DANCE & PIZZA PARTY

Friday 6/7 7:30-10:00pm THE OUTLAWS AND MORE ONCE AN OUTLAW

Saturday 6/8 7:30 - 10:00pm 70’S, 80’S ROCK FAVORITES RADIO FLASHBACK

Saturday 6/15 7:30-10:00pm FOO FIGHTERS THE BEST OF FOO

Friday 6/21 7:30-10:00pm BAD COMPANY - ROCK STEADY

Saturday 6/22 7:30-10:00pm JACKSON BROWNE RUNNING ON JACKSON

Monday 6/24 6:00-8:00PM ROLAND COMTOIS SIGNS OF SPIRIT AND PURPLE PAPERS

Saturday 6/29 7:30-10:00pm LED ZEPPELIN HOUSES OF THE HOLY

FEATURE

The key to good custom work is listening to customers and providing them with a positive experience. “I want to know where someone surfs and what kind of waves they like. I want to know their skill level and where they want to be. I want to know what they like and dislike about the boards they’re currently riding,” he says. Within all this conversation, Hutton sees opportunity, and that helps him find the ideal shape for each individual.

Custom boards consider each surfers’ skills and preferences

“They end up with a piece of functional art. It’s so beautiful when someone comes back to the shop to tell me that yes, the epiphany happened, and the ride was super fun.”

For those just starting out, Hutton recommends what he calls a “utility knife” of surfboards. “You want a long board that is big and forgiving. Something that will give you the most success immediately so you don’t get discouraged.”

Photo courtesy of Rhode Island Surf Co.

C.C. O’Brien’s Irish Sports Café

Pan aims to give new surfers an encouraging introductory experience through his shop, which offers surf lessons and camps. “I like teaching someone who really wants to learn,” he says. He makes sure his students understand surfing etiquette, which ultimately keeps everyone safe. “I tell the people I teach that if someone takes off on a wave, they own that wave,” he says, because a crowded wave can lead to an accident.

Hutton is a strong supporter of new surfers in the water contributing to the local scene’s diversity, not only because of who they are, but because of the different styles of

surfing they choose. “It adds to the creativity of what you see out there,” he says, adding that the South County surf culture is “awesome.” “In New England, the waves aren’t as consistent as they are in other places, so when there are waves, people drop everything to surf. They’re super happy and stoked just to be out there.”

For Pan, surfing adds a layer of spirituality to his life. “I have to go surf or I start to go nuts,” he says. “Only a surfer knows the feeling. You’re sitting in the water, the sun is going down and the waves are coming in. You can’t buy that. You have to experience it.”

A snapshot from Peter Pan’s early surfing career

Photo courtesy of Peter Pan

FOOD & DRINK

Gathering | Experience | In the Kitchen | Food Trends

Fromage and Festivities

Art collective founders expand their creativity to host foodie celebrations in a unique cafe concept

By Abbie Lahmers

What do art and cheese have in common? Katrina Momenee would argue they both bring people together – an idea that serves as the premise of The Gathering Table, Wakefield’s newest destination for cozy revelry.

Momenee and her husband Kevin are the creative masterminds behind pop-up market Field of Artisans and with their new cafe concept, Momenee says, “we aim to transform moments into occasions,” drawing from the couples’ work facilitating arts events since 2015. “Every market, we witness how soulful connection between artisans and art appreciators can elevate a person’s spirit. We hope to create similar genuine connections through The Gathering Table.”

Designed with the Art Nouveau era in mind, Momenee describes the countertop flooded with natural light from windows, a gallery wall of old photos and magazine pages depicting celebrations, and a mix of elegant and natural decor filling the space. “We’ve spent a lot of time creating a feeling here,” says Momenee. “We like to say it feels enchanted, yet familiar.”

Photo

FOOD & DRINK

Gathering, whether planned or impromptu, is encouraged in the space itself, though the cheese counter and specialty shop elements of the business also outfit guests with the provisions needed to bring their celebrations anywhere. “A quality cheese carries a story and that story is the next conversation starter at your gathering,” says Momenee, explaining that they carry 30 artisan cheeses, both locally and internationally sourced, with more added weekly. A special series of tasting events is in the works.

“Our specialty shop sells party supplies that can accompany your cheese selection, decorate your space, or invite your guests,” says Momenee. With an artist’s eye for items

that make an impression, she curates a selection of goods from local makers, many of whom are also art market vendors, as well as vintage party supplies like glassware, unused invitations, and books on entertaining. When it comes to snacking, find jams, cookies, crackers, ever-trendy tinned fish, spreads, olives, and meats, most of which come from New England and Rhode Island brands, including Narragansett’s Fox Smoked Fish.

And did we mention there’s crepes? The cafe serves delicate yet rich varieties made with buckwheat and flour batter, and a slew of toppings. “Each crepe is named after a type of gathering,” shares Momenee. “On the sweet side, the current favorite is The Jubilee with

ART IN THE DETAILS

The Gathering Table stocks a number of handmade items from local makers. Here’s a handful you’ll find in the shop:

ARTISAN CONFECTIONS by Allumé Chocolate, Wakefield

WOODEN DINING WARE by Boyd Studios, Pro v idence

HERBAL BUNDLES by Erba Energy Cleansing, Westerly

NATURAL SOY CANDLES by Latitude Home, Pro v idence

blueberry and lemon cream cheese. On the savory side is The Bonfire with smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and scallions.” There’s plenty of bites for vegan eaters, too, including fresh-made salads, soups, and Buddha bowls.

The couple’s experience taking a leap on launching Field of Artisans, during a time when such a concept didn’t yet exist in the area, uniquely positions them to identify a niche for their business that facilitates joyous soirees. “As both residents and business owners in South County, we have a true understanding of the area’s essence. We believe that we can fulfill a need while also introducing people to something new.” 237 Robinson Street, Wakefield, TheGatheringTableRI.com

Part cafe, part specialty shop, The Gathering Table is all about joyous celebrations

Photo courtesy of The Gathering Table

Bites of Passage

A West Warwick restaurant charms a Rhody transplant with New England classics served with love

By Jenny C. Shand

For 47 years, the Cowesett Inn has been owned and operated by the Paolucci family. James Paolucci points to the original walls of the building that was purchased in 1977 and explains how they have been incorporated into the current space. The old coat room door, with lettering denoting it as such, is freestanding in the middle of the hallway, with a rod affixed to the back of the door where people can still hang their coats. Two walls of windows let in the evening light. On the other side of the wrap-around bar is an entirely different scene: brick fireplaces and cozy booths. Brass accents, wood paneling, and patterned upholstery make this feel like a time capsule, a tavern that is both classy and comfortable.

This is the first time my friend and I have visited the West Warwick institution. The first thing we notice is the market, full of local brands, small regional producers, and

imported goods from Italy and Poland. Prepared meals can be purchased to-go, and a selection of thoughtfully arranged gift baskets are available. It’s a great place to peruse before the hostess seats us.

We were taken to a booth in the back, where ambient light filters through the large windows. The menu is expansive, offering options for every type of eater, from seafood lovers to vegetarians. Paolucci noted that some items have been there since the beginning: dishes like Clams Casino and Chicken Maryland. My friend and I started with the drink choices, deciding on a classic Bloody Mary for her and a Tiramisu Martini for me. Made with RumChata liqueur, Kahlua, and vanilla vodka, it was reminiscent of melted chocolate ice cream – a delicious indulgence.

Our waiter, Tyler, made a convincing case for the Pierogi as a starter. “Every week, we have Polish ladies who come in and make

Must-Try Items

PIEROGI ( $16 ) Handmade traditional Polish dumplings lightly pan-fried, finished with bacon bits and sauteed onions. Available with potato and cheese or cabbage and mushroom filling (pro-tip: find them in the market, too!)

SPICY STUFFIE ( $6 ) This Rhode Island staple is made with linguiça, fresh chopped clams, Italian bread and spices, and baked in its own quahog shell

PAELLA DIABLO ( $29 ) Shrimp, scallops, mussels, littlenecks, julienne onions, red and green bell pepper with authentic Mexican spices, served over saffron rice

Cuisine: American classics with New England influence Atmosphere: Family-style tavern

Ribeye with spinach and mashed potatoes

P hoto by Bre Goldsmith, courtesy of Cowesett Inn

them,” he explained. “They’re the best.” Intrigued, we ordered the potato and cheese version. They arrived topped with sauteed onions and crispy bacon bits, and they were the best I’ve ever had. “You can tell these were made by hand,” my friend said, noting the way the edges of the dough were pressed together. “This wasn’t done by a fork. There’s a lot of love in there.”

For our entrees, the Ribeye was cooked to a perfect medium rare, and the choice of sides (in this case, steamed spinach and mashed potatoes) were generous and filling. The Sausage Ravioli had a kick to it, with spicy sausage balanced by a creamy garlic white wine butter sauce, while the sauteed mushrooms, broccoli rabe, and roasted red pepper provided excellent flavor and texture

to the dish, and, dare I say – it rivals any Italian ravioli on Federal Hill.

Although we were getting ready to leave with our to-go boxes, at the last moment, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity for dessert. Spying something called Grapenut Pudding, I asked my friend what it was – her eyes widened when she exclaimed, “You’ve never had Grapenut pudding? It’s a Rhode Island rite of passage!” For any non-native New Englander, this custard-like dessert is made with milk-soaked Grape-Nut cereal that settles into a type of crust. I had to try it. I was surprised by its structural integrity: a square slice served on a plate, topped with whipped cream and nutmeg. The cereal gave it a chewy texture, like tapioca or rice pudding, and

it had just the right amount of sugar and hints of vanilla. Although I didn’t experience the nostalgia, I enjoyed my inaugural slice, and I felt one step closer to becoming a true Rhode Islander.

The Cowesett Inn is the perfect place to return week after week or to plan a special event, with plenty of seating to accommodate friends and family. With such a diverse menu, even the most complicated dietary restrictions can be satisfied, and somehow everyone will leave wow-ed. Perhaps it’s the extra ingredient of love that makes all the difference.

Cowesett Inn

226 Cowesett Avenue, West Warwick 401-828-4726 • CowesettInn.net

Sausage Ravioli

Classic and cozy vibes inside Cowesett Inn

P hotos by Bre Goldsmith, courtesy of Cowesett Inn

Dr. Salvatore Rizzuto, DMD Dr. Jennifer A. Torbett, DMD

Stay Salty

A dinner service pop-up takes up permanent residence at a Jamestown bakery

By Ruthie Wood

Salty Restaurant and Wine Bar used to be a pipe dream. Owners Noah and Alex Cain had always wanted to open their own restaurant, but with the combined income of a professional chef and a university professor, up-front capital was tight, and without a definitive customer base to show the bank, a loan was virtually impossible. “We’d always kicked around this idea of what it would be,” says Alex.

The Cains had always been foodie nomads. Noah worked as a chef for about 15 years in cities all around the world, from Boston and New York City to Southern France and other parts of Europe, before settling in Jamestown five years ago, working at the Coast Guard House and various Newport restaurants.

Their pop-up restaurant concept started through a serendipitous chain of events. In 2021, Stephanie and Lindsay Haigh became the new owners of The Village Hearth Bakery and Cafe, a staple in the Jamestown community. Noah helped make Sunday night pizzas for the popular spot in between cooking jobs, and a creative relationship blossomed between the food makers. When the Haighs learned the Cains were looking for a space to open their own eatery in 2023, they offered up the cafe to undergo a nightly transformation hosting their pop-up restaurant, Salty.

The first edition was in February, with all four nights completely selling out. By day, the Village Hearth would still serve pastries, sandwiches, and more during their regular hours, but at 5pm on select evenings, Salty dinner service began; the cafe was stripped, decor changed to give Salty its own vibe, and everything would be put back exactly as it was for coffee and breakfast the next morning.

“I’m so glad,” Noah expresses. “So glad the community turned out, that we could partner with an already existing business, and that Alex could come on board. It’s like lightning in a bottle.” The Cains acknowledge that it’s a unique opportunity that allows them to live

Photo by Brie Bryer, courtesy of Salty Restaurant

The Village Hearth transforms into Salty Restaurant select evenings

out a dream and share a space with a beloved eatery. Besides businesses that take Europeanstyle mid-afternoon siestas between lunch and dinner, there’s nothing quite like this complete changeover.

The couple’s experiences in Europe inspired the theme of Salty. “We always stumbled upon these little gems,” Noah relays. “We wanted to create something, particularly for the Jamestown community, where you could drop in, get a drink or light bite, or stay for a few hours,” Alex adds. The atmosphere is intimate and relaxed, with smaller plates and many courses, plus shareable meals for the table (think Spanish tapas).

Drawing on flavor profiles from Southern France, Italy, Spain, and Northern Africa, Salty infuses a “coastal Mediterranean” flair. Small bites might include fluffy focaccia with

salt cod brandade – a decadent spread – and for shareable main courses, they’ve offered the likes of mushroom salad with pickled celeriac, delicately spiced lamb boulettes (meatballs) with harissa yogurt, tender pork shoulder brochettes with grilled lemon, and meltin-your-mouth Sicilian tuna surrounded by roasted potatoes and tomatoes, drizzled with a honey vinegar sauce. For dessert, Noah’s chocolate mousse recipe with just a hint of sea salt and homemade whipped cream comes directly from his cooking experience in France.

Despite its exotic dishes, Salty’s menu is committed to supporting the local food ecosystem. “If I’m in the food industry, I feel partly responsible to be a part of the system, delivering local food to local people,” Noah affirms of a commitment very much engrained in the European lifestyle of serving food

that draws upon seasonal immediacy. The Cains’ goal is to source almost entirely local and seasonal, and highlight farm vendors. Lamb comes from Windmist Hill Farm, just a mile away, and Watson Farm is a go-to for produce. Other suppliers within a short distance include Luckyfoot Ranch in North Kingstown, Garman Farm in Middletown, and Narragansett Bay Lobsters.

Starting in June, Salty will no longer be just a monthly pop-up, but a permanent evening fixture at The Village Hearth, which means islanders won’t have to go far to experience a taste of Europe.

2 Watson Avenue, Jamestown

Every Friday-Saturday @salty_winebar_ri

Salty Restaurant & Wine Bar at The Village Hearth

Chef Noah Cain in the kitchen

Photo by Brie Bryer, courtesy of Salty Restaurant

Food Trends: Summer Seafood Best Bets

From clam cakes and chowder to raw oysters, these seasonal favorites are truckin’ onto the scene

By Ken Abrams

Doughboy sundaes, seafood platters, and summer breezes on the boardwalk are all quintessential experiences associated with Iggy’s. With locations in Warwick and Narragansett and an iconic mascot that rivals the Big Blue Bug, Iggy’s is a bona-fide Rhode Island institution. Iggy’s Doughboys and Chowderhouse, which started out as a seafood shack and later expanded to a full-service restaurant, introduced the custom-made truck in 2023 and are happy to announce that it’s back!

“We started very slowly last summer at food truck festivals, getting brand

awareness, getting people to realize we have a food truck. This year is the first full season for the truck,” says Caitlin White, operations manager. Among the more popular mobile offerings, “our staple items, chowder and clam cakes, fish and chips, and, of course, our Iggy Cheeseburger do really well.” Don’t miss Iggy’s at food truck events and festivals all summer long. “We’re celebrating National Food Truck Day on June 28 at the Oakland Beach location,” says White, with an entirely gluten-free menu for the night. Warwick, IggysRI.com

The summer months get busy at 401 Oyster Company. Owner and operator Brian Pinsky started the oyster farm to provide a sustainable, local food source.

“In the summer we sell directly to local restaurants,” says Pinsky, who’s entering his 13th season of farming on nine acres in Ninigret Pond, alongside other local harvesters. “I went to URI for aquaculture and fisheries; that’s what got me into the industry.”

“We do a lot of festivals, including the Charlestown Seafood Festival,” says Pinsky. “We also did 10,000 oysters in the (backstage) anchor tent at the Newport Folk Festival last year. This will be our sixth year doing it.” Pinsky notes that his product is gaining popularity among younger consumers, who enjoy buck-a-shuck servings at raw bars around the region. “It’s been a trendy thing for the past few years,” he notes. Look for 401 Oysters at the Point Judith Farmers Market at Fisherman’s Memorial State Park on Sundays this summer, with overnight shipping on their website, too. Charlestown, 401OysterCompany.com

Rhode Island oysters trending near and far

Ninigret Nectars Oysters started selling directly to local restaurants over a decade ago. “We still have a few of our original clients, but over 80 percent of our oysters now go to distributors,” says owner and operator Matt Behan who sends the harvests of the sea across the country, and even as far as Singapore.

“Rhode Island oysters have a good name and tend to have really great flavor. They are sought after everywhere. Ours are a smaller oyster… the big huge honking ones, that’s kind of old school. The new trend is petite; they are a delicacy, like caviar.”

Behan explains how water salinity impacts the oyster’s flavor. “We’re in a salt pond, connected to the ocean, but we don’t get a full turnover of the ocean, so the freshwater input knocks the saltiness down, which really lets the other flavors in there shine. Ours are described as sweet, with a buttery, creamy, nice mouthfeel. You don’t have to load them up with cocktail sauce; you can have them straight up.” Find out how to bring their tideto-table oysters to your event by visiting online. Charlestown, NinigretNectars.com

hoto courtesy of Iggy’s

Popular RI destination adds a food truck

The buck-a-shuck craze continues in Charlestown

SOUTH COUNTY SCENES SOUTH SCENES

ABOUT RHONDA

@rhondagrace03

A mom living life forever passionate about noticing all the little things, from the trees dancing in a breeze and sounds of birds singing in the rain to the beautiful colors of a summer sky. It’s these moments that bring her a sense of gratitude, peace, and joy.

A moonlit night on Charlestown Beach.